Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort

This 200-acre lakefront resort doesn’t have the signature Disney themes that its sister resorts showcase, but it’s every bit as busy with vacationing families and Disney-bound groups. It's set in a number of Spanish Colonial-style two-story buildings painted in pastel hues such as pink and light green. The impressive and large lobby looks like an Old World train station or post office, with high ceilings, traditional wood paneling, ceiling fans, and a large clock. Gold, green, and rust tile floors add a touch of class. The food court and main pool can get quite crowded, but there are lots of quiet nooks among the beautiful landscaping and peaceful waterfront that feel a little less hectic. Note that while the rooms are spread over two floors, there are no elevators.

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is located in a quiet and somewhat isolated setting that’s surrounded by many of Disney’s top attractions. It’s not within walking distance of anything, but many attractions are a short drive away. Epcot Center, Magic Kingdom, and Animal Kingdom take approximately 12 minutes to reach by car. The shops and restaurants at Disney Springs are a nine-minute drive away. Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park is eight minutes away by car. Universal Studios, SeaWorld, and the Orange County Convention Center all take around 15 minutes to reach. Orlando International Airport takes approximately 25 minutes to reach by car, traffic permitting.

Like the resort itself, the rooms here don’t have the bright Disney theme typical of other Disney properties. Instead, some rooms have pirate themes, while others have an understated Caribbean vibe that’s reinforced with colorful or tropical print bed throws, cushions, and shower curtains. Pirate-themed rooms have bed frames designed to resemble wooden ships, complete with high headboards that look like sailing masts, plus decorative skull-and-crossbone cushions. Other piratey features include dark-wood furniture designed to resemble whiskey barrels, treasure chests, and shipping crates. Blue-and-gold carpeting is printed with an old nautical map, and light-blue walls give a backdrop of clear skies. Standard amenities include mini-fridges, coffeemakers, safes, and flat-screen TVs. For an additional fee, guests can customize any room with Disney treats like balloons, cakes, or a tote bag. Preferred Rooms sleep up to five on two queen beds and a sofa bed. Other rooms are snug for four people.Bathrooms are smallish and have magnifying mirrors and shower/tub combos, plus double vanities placed outside the main rooms. Some rooms offer views of the lake and some are a long trek from the lobby, pools, and shuttle departure. Note that some past guests have complained about musty odors, broken items, and incomplete housekeeping.

This sprawling Disney resort has six separate islands (AKA villages) encircling the 45-acre Barefoot Bay, where bicycles and pontoon boats can be rented. A free internal shuttle connects the villages and central food court, which can be a lengthy walk otherwise. Free parking is available at each village, and free shuttles go to all of the Disney theme parks, Disney Springs, and the airport. Guests who sign up for the free MagicBand program can use their waterproof bracelets to access rooms, pay for food and drinks at the hotel, and even to get into the Disney Parks and make purchases. The bands are customizable and popular, since they allow for skipping payment lines. Each village has a heated outdoor pool, but the main aquatic attraction is the central Fuentes del Morro pool, a huge, zero-entry pool with two waterslides, a shipwreck-theme play area, two whirlpools, and the Banana Cabana pool bar. Other playful features on resort grounds include a video arcade, an outdoor playground, and free outdoor movies.The resort organizes activities such as campfires with marshmallow roasting and movie nights. There's also a  pirate adventure cruise for kids ages 4 to 12. More peaceful activities include fishing (and releasing) and jogging on the trails that run through the resort. For dining, the Old Port Royal Food Court provides lots of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and the full-service Shutters restaurant serves American favorites for dinner. The gift shop also sells snacks, drinks, liquor, and souvenirs. Coin-operated laundry facilities are open around the clock, and dry cleaning and laundry services are available. Staff can assist with everything from mail pick up to childcare. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.